Dive into the vibrant world of Mexican flavors with this simple, yet scrumptious One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole. Packed with hearty ingredients like ground beef, rice, and beans, and spiced to perfection, this dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a lifesaver when it comes to washing up. Perfect for busy weeknights or a festive potluck, this casserole brings all the zest and fun of Mexican cuisine right to your dinner table.
Comforting, Hearty, and Bursting with Flavor
This one-pot wonder combines the savory goodness of ground beef, the robustness of black beans, and the sweetness of corn, all simmered together with rice in a tomato-based sauce that’s richly seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and paprika. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh cilantro, every forkful is a testament to the joy of simple ingredients creating extraordinary flavors. Ready to get cooking?
Pro Tips for the Perfect Mexican Rice Casserole
- Saute to Perfection: Start by sautéing onions and garlic until translucent. This foundational step infuses the oil and layers flavor from the beginning.
- Brown the Beef Well: Ensure the ground beef is thoroughly browned for maximum flavor and texture.
- Rice Right: Use uncooked rice as it will absorb all the spices and broth, enhancing the dish with every grain.
- Season Boldly: Don’t hold back on the spices. Adjust chili powder, cumin, and paprika according to your taste for a more personalized flavor profile.
- Cheese and Cover: After adding the cheese, cover the pot for a few minutes. This traps the heat and melts the cheese perfectly without additional cooking.
One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole Recipe:
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
- Serving: Serves 6
- Equipment: Large skillet or saucepan
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup rice, uncooked
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels, frozen or canned
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- Heat Oil and Sauté Veggies: In your skillet, heat oil over medium and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
- Cook the Beef: Add ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks until fully browned.
- Add Main Ingredients: Mix in rice, tomatoes, beans, and corn. Pour in broth and stir well.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then cover, reduce heat, and simmer until rice is tender.
- Season: Add chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Cheese It Up: Sprinkle with cheese, cover, and let sit until the cheese melts.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and serve warm.
Enjoy a Taste of Mexico at Home
This One Pot Mexican Rice Casserole is your shortcut to a delicious, no-fuss meal that feels like a celebration. Whether you’re sitting down to a family meal or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and satisfying heartiness. Enjoy the convenience of one-pot cooking and the pleasure of a delicious homemade meal.
